The GCC and MENA region has great potential to benefit from new technologies and practices in agriculture, in particular dry-land farming techniques, hydroponics, low-intensity fish and shrimp farming, and non-traditional products (e.g. jojoba). ERAS has worked on agricultural projects throughout the region with both local companies and outside investors.

Recent projects in Agriculture & Food Processing:

Water buffalo farming

ERAS undertook a complete marketing evaluation, technical and financial feasibility study for a large water buffalo feedlot in Upper Egypt (Toshka). The facility would include fodder farming and feed mixing as well as breeding and fattening for meat production.

SME Hydroponics

With severe constraints on fresh water supplies in most of the Middle East, there is great potential for low water-use farming techniques such as hydroponics. We have undertaken extensive work on the potential for SME hydroponics facilities in the region, some integrated with shrimp and fish farming for “closed loop” systems.

Salicornia

Salicornia is a halophyte (salt-tolerant plant) that produces a good quality oil-seed, and can also be used as a salad crop and fodder. To understand the potential for Salicornia farming in the GCC we undertook a pre-feasibility study, including a review of existing farms and the potential for integrated facilities (shrimp, fish, Salicornia and mangrove).

Shrimp and fish farming

There is great potential for shrimp and fish farming in the Middle East, in particular along the Tihama plain along Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast. ERAS have executed a number of studies into seafood farming in the region.

Leather and wool processing

A substantial number of sheep, goat and cattle skins are disposed of each year or sold under value in the GCC. To evaluate the potential, ERAS have undertaken a pre-feasibility study into establishing local SME leather and wool processing facilities.

Food canning

ERAS undertook an extensive market survey and business development plan for an independent food canning company in Saudi Arabia. The business plan included product range development and marketing activities and targets.

Fast food chain

We undertook an evaluation of a mid-sized indigenous fast food chain as part of a private equity sale. The evaluation included a thorough market analysis, evaluation of competitors and assessment of the potential for private sale versus merger.